A lifetime on the seas
Yonie Kwan
For three decades, Yonie Kwan has been charting a course across the world's oceans as an able-bodied seaman. Working for MF Shipping Group, Kwan has become a cornerstone of his crew, his expertise and dedication a testament to his enduring passion for life at sea
Early Beginnings and Career progression
Kwan's journey began in his early twenties, driven by a sense of adventure. Reflecting on his early career, Kwan said, "Growing up by the sea, I developed a fascination with maritime activities. The prospect of exploring the world while working in a dynamic industry such as shipping captivated me".
Starting out as a deckhand, Kwan's hard work and determination quickly set him apart. He earned the respect of his peers and superiors: "I started my career with MF Shipping Group in an entry-level position and gradually took on more responsibilities and roles as I gained experience and demonstrated competence," he explained.
Celebrating 30 years with MF Shipping Group; "I believe my long service with MF Shipping Group is due to a combination of passion for the industry, a commitment to continuous learning and improvement, and strong relationships with colleagues," said Kwan. His enthusiasm for the maritime life has not faded and he remains committed to his profession.
Changes Over Time
Kwan has seen significant changes in the industry over the past three decades. "The most significant change has been the introduction of stricter regulations aimed at improving safety, environmental protection and operational standards within the industry," he said.
But Kwan has also faced many personal challenges during his career; "My greatest challenge has been to navigate through periods of industry uncertainty while maintaining the operational stability and profitability of the company," he reflected. His calm and systematic approach to problem solving has been instrumental in overcoming these hurdles.
As an experienced seafarer, Kwan understands the importance of leadership in maintaining a motivated crew. "I believe in leading by example, promoting open communication, and recognising and rewarding crew members' achievements to foster a motivated and engaged team," he explained.
Personal reflections
Kwan has fond memories of his first voyage with MF Shipping Group on the mvOliver. "My first voyage was an exhilarating experience filled with excitement, anticipation and a sense of adventure as I embarked on a new chapter in my career," he recalls.
Outside of work, Kwan enjoys several hobbies; "I enjoy spending time outdoors, reading and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and personal well-being," he said. These activities provide a balance to his demanding career at sea.
Yonie Kwan aboard one of the first vessels managed by MF Shipping Group
Vision for the future
Looking ahead, Kwan envisions a continued role within the shipping industry. "I see myself continuing in the industry, possibly in a mentoring or advisory capacity, leveraging my wealth of experience to guide the next generation of maritime professionals," he shared. Kwan is optimistic about the future of shipping, "The future of shipping will likely be shaped by advancements in technology, sustainability initiatives, and evolving global trade patterns, necessitating continuous adaptation and innovation," he said.
As Kwan reflects on his 30-year journey with MF Shipping Group, he expresses gratitude and optimism for the future. "I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of MF Shipping Group’s journey for the past 30 years and look forward to continued collaboration and success in the years to come," he concluded.
Check out our services
Aftermovie Company Days
2024 marked a significant milestone for MF Shipping Group: we celebrated our 30th anniversary. During the Company Days, we held celebrations in Turkey, the Philippines, and the Netherlands, bringing together our team from sea and office to connect, learn, and party.
Check out below aftermovie of our Company Days in the Netherlands!
